Method and Apparatus for Comparing Colors

ABSTRACT

A Method and Apparatus for Comparing Colors have been disclosed. In one implementation a compliant membrane which is substantially transparent with an area having a shade/color is placed on the user&#39;s skin to see what the shade/color will look like on the skin. In one implementation a compliant substrate which is largely transparent with an area having a shade/color is placed on an inanimate object to see how the shade/color will appear on the inanimate object without the substrate itself causing an unnecessary barrier between the inanimate object and the shade/color.

RELATED APPLICATION

The present application for patent is related to U.S. Patent ApplicationNo. 63/008,316 titled “Method and Apparatus for Comparing Colors” filedApr. 10, 2020 pending by the same inventor which is hereby incorporatedherein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention pertains to comparing colors. More particularly,the present invention relates to Method and Apparatus for ComparingColors.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Comparing or matching colors is difficult whether it be comparing ormatching colors on a skin tone, colors on hair or teeth, colors onmanufactured or handcrafted items, colors on stationary or movingphysical structures, colors on items found in the natural world, etc.

For example, precisely or exactly choosing or selecting or test samplingcolor cosmetics (including, but not limited to, lipstick, blush,foundation, concealer, eye shadow, eye and lip pencils, nail polish,hair color, sunless tanner, tooth whiteners) in hygienic, safe and/ornon-committal ways to decide what color and product to purchase isdifficult. Additionally, trying to prevent or reduce or minimize skinirritation caused by continually applying-then-removing colors fortesting as well as needing to test lighter colors before darker colorsdue to staining and inaccurate color representation presents a problem.

FIG. 1, generally at 100, shows various prior approaches. At 102 isshown direct application to lips of different colors. At 104 is directapplication to skin of different shades. At 106 is lipstick. At 108 isdirect application to skin of different shades (@noyneungmakeup and NYXhttps://www.nyxcosmetics.com/). At 110 is direct application to skin ofdifferent red shades. The stock photos and advertisements are propertiesof their respective owners and no claim is made thereto.

FIG. 2, generally at 200, shows various prior approaches from stockphotos and advertisements. At 202 is shown direct application to skin ofa color (alamy stock photo from www.alamy.com). At 204 is directapplication to skin of different colors. At 206 are different tonesdirectly applied to the skin. At 208 is shown 7 colors of concealer(Focallure https://focallure.com/). At 210 is direct application to skinof different shades from Maybelline Fit Me Foundation: Medium shades(https://www.maybelline.com/). At 212 are directly applied shades to 3different shades of arms showing the differing appearance of eachcosmetic shade (Sephora app screenshot, https://www.sephora.com). Thestock photos and advertisements are properties of their respectiveowners and no claim is made thereto.

Manually applying a coloring agent to a product/person through means ofan applicator (brush, tube, sponge, etc.) and then having to remove thecoloring agent if not satisfied or when placing another coloring agentatop that and thereby (a) negatively impacting the true color ofcoloring agent due to sub-layer colorants and/or (b) adding undesiredthickness to the items being colored, thereby possibly negativelyimpacting functionality (i.e., not sealing/closing as intended, unableto turn, unable to attach other parts) is a problem. Also, for a humanapplication to skin there is the unhygienic and possibleallergen-inducing aspects that cause problems.

This presents a technical problem for which a technical solution using atechnical means is needed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in thefigures of the accompanying drawings.

Any brand names or trademarks in the figures is the property of theirrespective owners and no claim is made thereto.

FIG. 1 shows various prior approaches.

FIG. 2 shows various prior approaches.

FIG. 3 illustrates a 4-color comparison device.

FIG. 4 illustrates a 6-color comparison device.

FIG. 5 illustrates an 8-color comparison device.

FIG. 6 illustrates a leaf-shaped comparison device.

FIG. 7 illustrates a flower-shaped comparison device.

FIG. 8 illustrates a butterfly shaped comparison device.

FIG. 9 illustrates a 1-color tester.

FIG. 10 illustrates 1-color testers with a holder integrated into thecolor-tester shape.

FIG. 11 illustrates a leaf shaped comparison device.

FIG. 12 illustrates a fish shaped comparison device.

FIG. 13 illustrates a long oval shaped comparison device.

FIG. 14 illustrates a heart shaped comparison device.

FIG. 15 illustrates various color testers.

FIG. 16 illustrates a rounded rectangular shaped comparison device.

FIG. 17 illustrates a cylindrical shaped comparison device.

FIG. 18 illustrates a rigid comparison device.

FIG. 19 illustrates various reflectivity, absorptivity, andtransmissivity factors.

FIG. 20 illustrates various reflectivity, absorptivity, andtransmissivity factors.

FIG. 21 illustrates various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While embodiments of the invention are illustrated primarily for acosmetic use, the invention is not so limited and the techniquesdisclosed can be applied to comparing or matching other colors, forexample, but not limited to shades of manufactured or handcrafted items,stationary or moving physical structures, or items found in the naturalworld (examples of all such as interior and exterior walls, furniture,vehicles and vessels, product enclosures, textiles, drapes etc.)

Embodiments of the techniques support comparing or matching colors by auser to determine their preference for a shade or color.

Embodiments of the techniques support a color sampling tool for animateand inanimate objects for hygiene, including but not limited to, barrierprotection against viruses, bacteria, pathogens, and other healthmaladies, or allergen reduction, or error reduction in comparisons, oreconomical decision-making, or avoiding excess waste or causingenvironmental harm.

The techniques disclosed in various one or more embodiments (theembodiments are not mutually exclusive) helps end-users of colorizationproducts more confidently, cost effectively, hypoallergenically, andhygienically (when applied to body parts) select and/or purchaseproducts that meet their color needs.

The techniques disclosed in various one or more embodiments helpsretailers/wholesalers/manufacturers reduce variable business costscaused by end-users returning products due to disparities between colorchips/samples and the true color applied to both animate and inanimateobjects. That is, by increasing the percentage of good-to-great colorpicks at purchase, we can lower the percentage of expensive/wastefulreturns by customers on the supply chain itself due to poor-to-bad colorpicks.

The one or more embodiments and techniques disclosed are applicable tomultiple industries that utilize colorization, including but not limitedto, these sectors and sub-categories:

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

-   -   Color cosmetics (lips, eyes, face, etc.)    -   Makeup    -   Hair dyes/coloring    -   Matching hair extensions    -   Nail varnishes/polishes    -   Self-tanners

Healthcare

-   -   Dental (tooth whitening, crown color, etc.)    -   Ophthalmology (eyeglass frames, contacts, etc.)    -   Orthopedics (casts, braces, etc.)    -   Prosthetics    -   Surgical (skin grafts, sutures, etc.)

Vehicles and Vessels

-   -   Airplanes, unmanned aviation vehicles (UAVs such as drones),        gliders, and other manned and unmanned modes of air transport    -   Automobiles (non-OEM), trucks, automated vehicles, motor        coaches, buses and other personal and commercial vehicles    -   Bicycles, scooters and other non-motorized modes of transport    -   Marine, freshwater and other waterborne commercial and personal        transportation and hobbyist vessels    -   Motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and other        motorized/electric modes of transport    -   Rapid rail, light rail, subways, trolleys, trams and trains

Furnishings

-   -   Cabinetry    -   Furniture (new, vintage, antique) for indoor and outdoor use    -   Garden products (fixtures, equipment, tools, privacy screens,        etc.)    -   Hobby use

Manufacturing

-   -   Anodizing    -   Appliances (small and large)    -   Ceramics/pottery (food-safe and decorative)—glazes, special        effects post-firing, etc.    -   Electronics    -   Office furniture and fixtures    -   Powder coatings, paints, glazes, stains and other specialty        chemicals especially those that contain chroma, hues or tints    -   Textile Dying and leather tanning

Construction and Interior Decorating

-   -   Architectural glass    -   Concrete stains and colors    -   Outdoor spaces (public and private)    -   Screening, umbrellas, awnings, window treatments, etc.    -   Siding    -   Tiles and flooring    -   Trims (baseboards, moldings, etc.—floor to ceiling)    -   Walls (interior and exterior)    -   Window and sliding door tints, frames, decorations, etc.

The one or more embodiments and techniques disclosed are applicable tomultiple users of colorization, including but not limited to, theseprofessions and trades:

Auto body shop

Architects/General Contractors

Artisans/Craftspeople

Artists/Illustrators/Graphic Designers/Theatrical makeup

Chemists/Researchers/Scientists

Dentists/Physicians/Surgeons/Optometrists/Opticians/Prosthetists/Orthotists

Industrial Designers/Product Designers/Product Developers

Interior Decorators

Makeup Artists/Hair Stylists/Fashion Stylists

Merchandisers/Retailers/Trade Show Booth Creators

Marketers/Package Designers/Printers

Painters

Programmers/Digital Content Creators/Virtual Reality

Publishers/Editors/Photographers

Tattoo parlors

Trend Forecasters

When people desire adding color/pigment to animate or inanimate objects,their color objective is either specific whereby they need an exactmatch so they will keep seeking that perfect shade (e.g., “These chairsmust match the living room curtains,” “This wood varnish must match thewhole dresser after being repaired,” or “We need to repaint ourinventory because customers aren't buying this line” or “We must haveour signature color”); or inspirational whereby they examine numerousshades and choose the best based on any number of variables (e.g.,“What's the best red lipstick or tooth whitening shade for my skintone?” or “1 want a nice green for my kitchen walls”). This is truewhether the pigment will be applied to themselves or other people (suchas cosmetics, personal care products and some medical/health devices) orto physical items (such as personal items in homes, items in public,commercial and industrial spaces and manufactured items).

This decision-making and buying cycle impacts not only end-users ofcolor products but also the entire supply chain of manufacturers,wholesalers and retailers regardless of B2C (business to consumer) orB2B (business to business, commercial and industrial) channels.

In one embodiment a color is affixed to a clear or transparent ortranslucent substrate and placed atop the item to be colorized therebyshowing the accuracy of the combined colors. The substrate can havevarious shades, tints, textures, and/or provide other options to assistin the desired end-result and the user can choose/purchase accordingly.

FIG. 3 illustrates, generally at 300, one embodiment showing a 4-colorcomparison device. At 302 is a rounded rectangle substrate. The roundedrectangle substrate shown has 4-color selection regions, 304, 306, 308,and 310. Each of the color selection regions has a section for writingand identifying a selection, 314, 316, 318, and 320. The section forwriting and identify a selection may be directly on the substrate or maybe a coated area on the substrate. The dimensions of the roundedrectangle 302 substrate can vary to fit the intended use. Not shown isany possible watermark on the comparison device.

FIG. 4 illustrates, generally at 400, one embodiment showing a 6-colorcomparison device. At 402 is a rounded rectangle. The rounded rectangleshown has 6-color selection regions, 404, 406, 408, 410, 412, and 414.Each of the color selection regions has a coated section for writing andidentifying a selection, 424, 426, 428, 430, 432, and 434. Thedimensions of the rounded rectangle 402 can vary to fit the intendeduse. Not shown is any possible watermark on the comparison device.

FIG. 5 illustrates, generally at 500, one embodiment showing an 8-colorcomparison device. At 502 is a rounded rectangle. The rounded rectangleshown has 8-color selection regions, 504, 506, 508, 510, 512, 514, 516,and 518. Each of the color selection regions has a coated section forwriting and identifying a selection, 524, 526, 528, 530, 532, 534, 536,and 538. The dimensions of the rounded rectangle 502 can vary to fit theintended use. Not shown is any possible watermark on the comparisondevice.

FIG. 6 illustrates, generally at 600, one embodiment showing aleaf-shaped comparison device. At 602 is the leaf shape. The leaf shape602 has a stem 604 that may be used as handle for the leaf shape 602.The leaves having the various colors/shades and sections for markingsmay be equally shaped or varied as shown. Not shown is any possiblewatermark on the comparison device.

FIG. 7 illustrates, generally at 700, one embodiment showing aflower-shaped comparison device. At 702 is the flower shape. The flowershape 702 has an optional (shown) stem at 704 that may be used as ahandle for the flower shape 702. The flower petals having the variouscolors/shades and sections for markings are shown. Petal 706, havingshade/color 708, and marking/indication area 710 are representative ofthe 6 petals shown. Not shown is any possible watermark on thecomparison device.

FIG. 8 illustrates, generally at 800, one embodiment showing a butterflyshaped comparison device. At 802 is the butterfly shape. The butterflywings having the various colors/shades and sections for markings areshown. Wing 804, having shade/color 806, and marking/indication area 808is representative of the two wings shown. While the comparison device inFIG. 8 shows two different colors, the embodiment is not so limited andmay show one or more colors/shades. Not shown is any possible watermarkon the comparison device.

FIG. 9 illustrates, generally at 900, one embodiment showing a 1-colortester. The 1-color 902 and marking area 904 are on a substrate 906. The1-color tester has no special holder, that is, the user can simply usethe substrate and/or its perimeter for holding/grasping. The markingarea 904 may be directly on the substrate 906 or may be a coated area onthe substrate 906. Not shown is any possible watermark on the comparisondevice.

FIG. 10 illustrates, generally at 1000, embodiments showing 1-colortesters with a holder integrated into the color tester shape. At 1002 isa generally rectangular shaped color tester having a color sample at1004, a marking/indication/identification area at 1006, and anintegrated handle at 1008. At 1022 is a generally circular shaped colortester having a color sample at 1024, a marking/indication area at 1026,and an integrated handle at 1028. The marking/indication area may be acoated area, textured area, or frosted area on the color tester (e.g.1002, 1022). Not shown is any possible watermark on the comparisondevice.

FIG. 11 illustrates, generally at 1100, one embodiment showing a leafshaped (generally oval shaped) comparison device. At 1102 is the leafhaving a stem 1104 serving as a holder for a user. At 1106 is theshade/color, and at 1108 is a marking/indication area. While the leaf inFIG. 11 is a single leaf showing a single color, the embodiment is notso limited and may show more colors/shades, for example, around theperimeter in different sections. Not shown is any possible watermark onthe comparison device.

FIG. 12 illustrates, generally at 1200, one embodiment showing a fishshaped comparison device. At 1202 is the fish having a tail 1204 servingas a holder for a user. At 1206 is the shade/color, and at 1208 is amarking/indication area. While the fish in FIG. 12 is a single fishshowing a single color, the embodiment is not so limited and may showmore colors/shades, for example, around the perimeter in differentsections. Also, the marking/indication area may or may not include acoating on the comparison device. Not shown is any possible watermark onthe comparison device.

FIG. 13 illustrates, generally at 1300, one embodiment showing a longoval shaped comparison device. At 1302 is the oval which a user couldgrasp at either end. At 1304 is the shade/color, and at 1306 is anoptional marking/indication/identification/writing area. While the ovalin FIG. 13 shows a single color, the embodiment is not so limited andmay show more colors/shades, for example, a different shade/color may beat each end of the oval. Not shown is any possible watermark on thecomparison device.

FIG. 14 illustrates, generally at 1400, one embodiment showing a heartshaped comparison device. At 1402 is the heart shaped comparison devicewith the two chambers of the heart 1410, and 1420, each having ashade/color respectively 1412, 1422 and marking/indication arearespectively 1414, 1424. While the heart shaped comparison device inFIG. 14 shows two colors, the embodiment is not so limited and may showa single color. Also, the marking/indication area may or may not includea coating on the comparison device. The user may grasp the heart shapedcomparison device anywhere including the bottom of the heart as a holderor use an affixed handle (not shown). Not shown is any possiblewatermark on the comparison device.

FIG. 15 illustrates, generally at 1500, embodiments showing colortesters. At 1502 is a 3-slat fan. At 1504, 1506, and 1508 are thevarious colors. At 1514, 1516, and 1518 are the respectivemarking/indication/identification areas. At 1520 at the bottom of thefan is a holding area for a user. At 1550 is a single fan color testerhaving at 1552 a single color, at 1554 amarking/indication/identification area, and at 1556 a holding area for auser at the bottom of the single fan color tester 1550. Themarking/indication area may or may not include a coating on thecomparison device. Not shown is any possible watermark on the comparisondevice.

FIG. 16 illustrates, generally at 1600, one embodiment showing a roundedrectangular shaped comparison device. At 1602 is the comparison devicewhich a user could grasp anywhere. At 1604 is the shade/color, and at1606 is the marking/indication/identification/writing area. While thecomparison device in FIG. 16 shows a single color, the embodiment is notso limited and may show more colors/shades, for example, differentshades/colors may be at areas around the periphery. Not shown is anypossible watermark on the comparison device.

While the embodiments described above and illustrated have shown arelatively small color tester that can come preprinted or the colorsample or makeup can be applied by a user, the invention is not solimited. For example, if the user wanted to test a variety ofcolors/shades, for example, on an arm, the substantially clearcomparison device could wrap around the arm and secure to itself in aform similar to a cylinder. Then the user could apply a variety ofcolors/shades (for example by using the other hand) and determine if anyof the colors/shades were acceptable.

FIG. 17, illustrates, generally at 1700, an embodiment showing thecomparison device. At 1702 is the color tester also called thecomparison device formed into a cylindrical shape. At 1704 in dashedlines are a body part, for example, in this case, an arm. At 1706-1 to1706-4 are four color samples. At 1708 is where the comparison deviceattaches to itself. This attachment could be adhesive, a button andhole, Velcro® or any suitable attachment device. The number of colorsamples (such as at 1706) can vary based on the user or a printer if itis a preprinted comparison device. Not shown is any possible watermarkon the comparison device.

Nor is the invention limited to the comparison device being asubstantially pliable material. For example, a glass slide could be usedto hold the color(s) and be pressed against the user's skin to see thecomparison. A glass slide could be sanitized, for example, in adishwasher and reused. The glass slide can be clear or frosted.

Nor is the invention limited to using a glass slide, that is, a plasticslide that is rigid could be used.

FIG. 18, illustrates, generally at 1800, an embodiment showing thecomparison device which is not a pliable material. At 1802 is a top viewof a comparison device. At 1804 is a color sample, for example,lipstick. At 1806 is a side view of the comparison device. At 1808 (notto scale) is the side view of the color sample, for example, lipstick.Not shown is any possible watermark on the comparison device.

FIG. 19, illustrates, generally at 1900, an embodiment showing variousreflectivity, absorptivity, and transmissivity factors. Not everyreflectivity, absorptivity, and transmissivity is shown for eachsurface. FIG. 19 is not to scale and is a side view. At 1910 is a colorsample. At 1912 is incident radiation hitting color sample 1910 (Gc). At1914 is reflectivity off the color sample 1910 (Gcref). At 1916 isabsorptivity of the color sample 1910 (Gcabs). At 1918 is transmissivityof the color sample 1910 (Gctr).

At 1920 is a substrate. At 1922 is incident radiation hitting substrate1920 (Gs). At 1924 is reflectivity off the substrate 1920 (Gsref). At1926 is absorptivity of the substrate 1920 (Gsabs). At 1928 istransmissivity of the substrate 1920 (Gstr).

At 1930 is a combined substrate and color sample. Note that theradiation 1938 does not show reflection at the color sample 1910substrate 1920 interface, nor absorptivity in the substrate 1920.

FIG. 20, illustrates, generally at 2000, an embodiment showing variousreflectivity, absorptivity, and transmissivity factors. Not everyreflectivity, absorptivity, and transmissivity is shown for eachsurface. FIG. 20 is not to scale and is a side view. Arrows are used inthis illustration to indicate light rays and the arrow shaft thicknessdoes not indicate amplitude, nor does the shaft length indicateamplitude.

At 2010 is a substrate. At 2012 is incoming light which hits the surfaceof the substrate 2010 and reflects part of the light at 2014. Part oflight 2012 is absorbed by the substrate 2010 shown as 2016. Theremaining light 2018 is transmitted through the substrate 2010 and inthis illustration is reflected off a surface 2080 to which the substrate2010 is in proximity. The gap 2070 between the substrate 2010 and thesurface 2080 is not to scale and the gap 2070 if in intimate contactwith surface 2080 would be very small. The remaining light 2018 isreflected off 2080 and is shown emerging at 2026. Before the lightemerges at 2026 part of the light is reflected as shown at 2020, part ofthe light is absorbed in the substrate 2010 as shown at 2022, and partof the light is reflected at 2024.

At 2020 is a color sample sitting on the substrate 2010. At 2030 isincoming light which hits the surface of the color sample 2020 andreflects part of the light at 2032. Part of light 2030 is absorbed bythe color sample 2020 shown as 2034. Part of light 2030 is reflected offthe boundary between the substrate 2010 and the color sample 2020 andemerges as 2040. Before it emerges at 2040 part of it is absorbed by thecolor sample 2020 as shown at 2036 and part of it is reflected as shownat 2038.

The remaining light 2030 traverses through the substrate 2010 as shownat 2044 and in this illustration is reflected off the surface 2080 towhich the substrate 2010 is in proximity. The remaining light 2044 isreflected off 2080 and is shown emerging at 2056. Before the lightemerges at 2056 part of the light is reflected off the substrate 2010 asshown at 2046, part of the light is absorbed in the substrate 2010 asshown at 2048, and part of the light is reflected at the substrate 2010and color sample 2020 boundary as shown at 2050, the light then entersthe color sample 2020 where part of it is absorbed as shown at 2052,part of the light is reflected as shown at 2054 before it emerges asshown at 2056.

At 2060 is a representative position from which a user might view thesubstrate 2010 with the color sample 2020. What is to be appreciated isthat user would see light as shown from 2014, and 2026 from thesubstrate 2010. And the user would see light as shown from 2032, 2040,and 2056 from the color sample 2020 sitting on top of the substrate2010.

As shown in FIG. 20, the ability to see the substrate 2010 and the colorsample 2020 sitting on the substrate 2010 both of which are sitting ontop of a surface 2080 allows the user to see through the substrate 2010,and see the effect of the color sample 2020 also sitting on top of thesubstrate 2010 and the surface 2080. In this way the user can judge theeffect of the color sample 2020 on the surface 2080.

FIG. 21, illustrates, generally at 2100, various embodiments. At 1. Amethod of making a color comparison device comprising: defining a firstregion on a substrate, the substrate having a first reflectivity, afirst absorptivity, and a first transmissivity; placing on a secondregion of the substrate a color sample, the color sample having a secondreflectivity, a second absorptivity, and a second transmissivity; andwherein the second region of the substrate having the color sample has athird reflectivity, a third absorptivity, and a third transmissivity;wherein the substrate first transmissivity is greater than zero; whereinthe third transmissivity is less than the first transmissivity; andwherein the first region on the substrate and the second region of thesubstrate are not a same region. At 2. The method of 1. wherein thesubstrate is impervious to the color sample. At 3. The method of 2.wherein the color sample is lipstick. At 4. The method of 2. wherein thesubstrate is made of a substantially pliable material wherein thesubstantially pliable material substantially conforms to a body shape ofa user when the substantially pliable material is pressed against thebody shape of the user. At 5. The method of 4. wherein the substantiallypliable material is a gelatinous-like material. At 6. The method of 1.wherein the substrate is a glass slide, and wherein the glass slide isselected from the group consisting of a clear glass slide, and a frostedglass slide. At 7. A method for limiting the spread of pathogens whentrying out makeup, the method comprising: providing a sample of themakeup on a second region of a comparison device, the comparison devicehaving a first region, the first region of the comparison device havinga first reflectivity and the first region does not contain the sample ofthe makeup, the second region is covered with the sample of the makeupand has a second reflectivity, wherein the second reflectivity isdifferent than the first reflectivity; and providing the comparisondevice for placement proximate to a user's body part. At 8. The methodof 7. wherein the second region of the comparison device is imperviousto the sample of the makeup. At 9. The method of 7. wherein thetransparent region of the comparison device allows the user to see thebody part without the sample of the makeup. At 10. The method of 8.wherein when the comparison device is placed proximate to the user'sbody part both the sample of the makeup and the user's body part arevisible to the user. At 11. The method of 8. wherein the transparentregion is flexible and when pressed against the user's body partsubstantially conforms to the body part shape. At 12. The method of 8.wherein the transparent region does not allow the makeup to soak throughthe transparent region, and the transparent region does not react withthe makeup, and the transparent region does not allow the makeup toslide off. At 13. The method of 7. further comprising imprinting on thecomparison device an identification code for the sample of the makeup.At 14. The method of 8. wherein the transparent region is agelatinous-like material. At 15. The method of 8. wherein thetransparent region does not allow the makeup to soak through thetransparent region, and the transparent region does not react with themakeup, and the transparent region does not allow the makeup to slideoff. At 16. An apparatus, comprising: one or more color samples appliedon a first portion of a substantially transparent pliable substrate; asecond portion of the substantially transparent pliable substrate isfree of the one or more color samples; one or more identificationmarking areas to identify the one or more color samples; and wherein atleast one of the one or more identification marking areas is located onthe substantially transparent pliable substrate. At 17. The apparatus of16. wherein the substantially transparent pliable substrate is to beplaced on an object to show a user how the one or more color sampleswill appear on the object without getting the one or more color sampleson the object. At 18. The apparatus of 17. wherein the object is aninanimate object. At 19. The apparatus of 16. wherein the one or morecolor samples are one or more color samples selected from the groupconsisting of makeup, stains, powder coatings, and glazes, and whereinthe substantially transparent pliable substrate is hypoallergenic. At20. The apparatus of 16. wherein the substantially transparent pliablesubstrate substantially conforms to a body shape of a user when thesubstantially transparent pliable substrate is pressed against the bodyshape of the user.

The comparison device may be any suitable shape for comparison. Forexample, the best shape for fingernail color comparisons may be in thegeneral shape of various fingernails or the best shape for lip colorcomparisons may be in the general shape of lips, or the best shape fortooth whitening color comparisons may be in the general shape of upperand lower teeth, or the best shape for optical frames or colored contactlenses may be in the general shape of eyes, etc. What is to beappreciated is that the shape of the comparison device may be configuredfor a better color comparison.

The substrate upon which the colors/shades are placed may be constructedof a film or mesh whether coated or uncoated or laser-cut material,etc., sufficient to hold the color/shade and yet compliant if needed toconform to a feature on a human user, for example, to conform to a cheekarea, etc. Additionally, the substrate need not be of uniform thickness.For example, for structural integrity the thickness on an outerperimeter may be of a greater thickness to serve as a frame or holderfor the inner thinner (more compliant) parts of the color tester. Thesubstrate may be of one or more materials, such as, but not limited to,a gelatinous-like material with the outer edges acting as a frame, andthe internal area may be clear, transparent, translucent, or opaque (ofany color).

In one embodiment aclear/transparent/translucent/coated-mesh/uncoated-mesh substrate (if tobe placed against skin/hair/body: could be food-grade,pharmaceutical-grade, BPA/BPS-free, etc. so safer/healthier) that is anysuitable, flexible or pliable material. It may be resistant to productsapplied (e.g. impervious or not soaking through or reacting with theproduct applied or sliding off). The substrate material in oneembodiment when stacked would not adhere/stick to other pieces. In oneembodiment the substrate material may adhere to other substrates (e.g.to see combined effect). In one embodiment the substrate is printablefor identification either on the substrate itself or on an attachmentused for writing and/or holding, etc.

In one embodiment the substrate is thin (˜0.4 mm or thinner depending onmaterial if for cosmetics/personal care items) and could be thicker ifneeded for inanimate objects.

In one embodiment the substrate is a gelatinous-like material.

In one embodiment the substrate is held in place by a frame made of thesame or different material from the substrate.

In one embodiment the substrate is semi-rigid to rigid (depending onmaterial)—rigid enough to remain flat (i.e. not flop around) when heldagainst the face/body but not too rigid that can't partially mold or fitto face/body if/as needed if for cosmetics/personal care/certainhealthcare items like tooth whitener and could be more rigid if forinanimate objects

In one embodiment rounded edges (no sharp points) may be used so itwon't injure parts of the body, especially for delicate skin areas suchas, but not limited to, the face, eyes, lips, inside the mouth, fingers,hands, etc.

In one embodiment the substrate may have a removable adhesive. Thiswould possibly aid in attachment to an item to be colorized so as toview the color.

In one embodiment the substrate may be made of a cling-type film. Forexample, wrapping an item to be colorized so that the color can be seenon the item.

In various embodiments the shape may be oval, scallop, fan, orsquare/rectangle with rounded edges, etc. Some embodiments may bebody-part shaped such as fingernails for nail polish, lips/mouth forlipstick, upper and/or lower teeth for teeth whitening, eyes for opticalframes or colored contact lenses, etc. if for cosmetics/personalcare/certain healthcare items while for inanimate objects, moretraditional square/rectangle/circle shapes may be appropriate

A holder or handle for the shape may be provided on the bottom or anychosen side or sides to help position the substrate when held (whetherthe handle/holder being an integrated design from the substrate orseparately affixed to the substrate by any material or by any method ofadherence, or clamping, etc.)

In one embodiment a watermark or marking which does not interfere withcolor testing and viewing may be applied. These can include a brandname, logo, etc.

In one embodiment a section (e.g. small section) contains awhite/light-colored coating enabling users to identify colors beingtested via writing on the section the product name, brand, and colorname/number (or any desired words) among many choices so the user caneasily shortlist product candidates and easily recall what should befurther narrowed or eventually tested directly on the object (e.g. skin,wall, furniture, etc.).

In one embodiment the size offered can include space for 4, 6, 8, ormore colors with written notations (e.g. numbers, letters, etc.) toeasily move across the object (e.g. body part, wall, furniture, etc.) tobe colored, thereby making it easier/faster/economical to compare aswell as minimize the number of 1-color or multi-color testers used.

In one embodiment the substrate can be invisiblypatterned/dimpled/textured/laser cut to provide better adherence oraffect reflectivity.

In one embodiment the substrate can have absorbent material and/or acoating, such as an adhesive, to receive and hold the coloring (e.g.powder) without sliding off and/or dispersing.

In one embodiment pre-colored versions for non-sampling environmentswill have actual color either sandwiched between two+layers orpermanently adhered via technical process, such as, but not limited to,UV curing, etc.

The embodiments can be available in bulk (B2B) and retail (B2C)packaging and retail point-of-sale displays for either B2C or B2B use.

The embodiments may or may not be recyclable and/or made from recycledproducts or made from organic materials.

Other embodiments are also possible, for example, affixing multiplepeelable color films to cardboard/paper so one can print information onthe card and remove individual sheets for direct placement on items tobe colored as intended.

Other embodiments are also possible, for example, replacing paint chipswith single and multiple colors (e.g. tall cards, tri-folds) andcosmetic palettes, etc. This embodiment may be less expensive to producecompared to a writeable coating.

Other embodiments are also possible, such as, but not limited to, apeelable stack much like Post-It® notes.

Embodiments can be used for other purposes, for example, but not limitedto, testing custom mixed colors for makeup, food coloring, etc. andseeing how it looks on a particular person, item, icing/baked goods,etc.

Embodiments can also be used in combinations because they are notmutually exclusive, for example, but not limited to individual sheets(comparison devices) can be joined/bound in any number of methods, thatis they don't have to remain as single sheets.

Thus a Method and Apparatus for Comparing Colors has been described.

Because of the thermal embodiments the present invention requiresspecialized hardware, for example, but not limited to, separate channelsfor thermal conductivity.

As used in this description, “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” orsimilar phrases means that the feature(s) being described are includedin at least one embodiment of the invention. References to “oneembodiment” in this description do not necessarily refer to the sameembodiment; however, neither are such embodiments mutually exclusive.Nor does “one embodiment” imply that there is but a single embodiment ofthe invention. For example, a feature, structure, act, etc. described in“one embodiment” may also be included in other embodiments. Thus, theinvention may include a variety of combinations and/or integrations ofthe embodiments described herein.

As used in this description, “substantially” or “substantially equal” orsimilar phrases are used to indicate that the items are very close orsimilar. Since two physical entities can never be exactly equal, aphrase such as “substantially equal” is used to indicate that they arefor all practical purposes equal.

It is to be understood that in any one or more embodiments of theinvention where alternative approaches or techniques are discussed thatany and all such combinations as may be possible are hereby disclosed.For example, if there are five techniques discussed that are allpossible, then denoting each technique as follows: A, B, C, D, E, eachtechnique may be either present or not present with every othertechnique, thus yielding 2{circumflex over ( )}5 or 32 combinations, inbinary order ranging from not A and not B and not C and not D and not Eto A and B and C and D and E. Applicant(s) hereby claims all suchpossible combinations. Applicant(s) hereby submit that the foregoingcombinations comply with applicable EP (European Patent) standards. Nopreference is given any combination.

Thus Method and Apparatus for Comparing Colors have been described.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of making a color comparison devicecomprising: defining a first region on a substrate, the substrate havinga first reflectivity, a first absorptivity, and a first transmissivity;placing on a second region of the substrate a color sample, the colorsample having a second reflectivity, a second absorptivity, and a secondtransmissivity; and wherein the second region of the substrate havingthe color sample has a third reflectivity, a third absorptivity, and athird transmissivity; wherein the substrate first transmissivity isgreater than zero; wherein the third transmissivity is less than thefirst transmissivity; and wherein the first region on the substrate andthe second region of the substrate are not a same region.
 2. The methodof claim 1 wherein the substrate is impervious to the color sample. 3.The method of claim 2 wherein the color sample is lipstick.
 4. Themethod of claim 2 wherein the substrate is made of a substantiallypliable material wherein the substantially pliable materialsubstantially conforms to a body shape of a user when the substantiallypliable material is pressed against the body shape of the user.
 5. Themethod of claim 4 wherein the substantially pliable material is agelatinous-like material.
 6. The method of claim 1 wherein the substrateis a glass slide, and wherein the glass slide is selected from the groupconsisting of a clear glass slide, and a frosted glass slide.
 7. Amethod for limiting the spread of pathogens when trying out makeup, themethod comprising: providing a sample of the makeup on a second regionof a comparison device, the comparison device having a first region, thefirst region of the comparison device having a first reflectivity andthe first region does not contain the sample of the makeup, the secondregion is covered with the sample of the makeup and has a secondreflectivity, wherein the second reflectivity is different than thefirst reflectivity; and providing the comparison device for placementproximate to a users body part.
 8. The method of claim 7 wherein thesecond region of the comparison device is impervious to the sample ofthe makeup.
 9. The method of claim 7 wherein the transparent region ofthe comparison device allows the user to see the body part without thesample of the makeup.
 10. The method of claim 8 wherein when thecomparison device is placed proximate to the user's body part both thesample of the makeup and the user's body part are visible to the user.11. The method of claim 8 wherein the transparent region is flexible andwhen pressed against the user's body part substantially conforms to thebody part shape.
 12. The method of claim 8 wherein the transparentregion does not allow the makeup to soak through the transparent region,and the transparent region does not react with the makeup, and thetransparent region does not allow the makeup to slide off.
 13. Themethod of claim 7 further comprising imprinting on the comparison devicean identification code for the sample of the makeup.
 14. The method ofclaim 8 wherein the transparent region is a gelatinous-like material.15. The method of claim 8 wherein the transparent region does not allowthe makeup to soak through the transparent region, and the transparentregion does not react with the makeup, and the transparent region doesnot allow the makeup to slide off.
 16. An apparatus, comprising: one ormore color samples applied on a first portion of a substantiallytransparent pliable substrate; a second portion of the substantiallytransparent pliable substrate is free of the one or more color samples;one or more identification marking areas to identify the one or morecolor samples; and wherein at least one of the one or moreidentification marking areas is located on the substantially transparentpliable substrate.
 17. The apparatus of claim 16 wherein thesubstantially transparent pliable substrate is to be placed on an objectto show a user how the one or more color samples will appear on theobject without getting the one or more color samples on the object. 18.The apparatus of claim 17 wherein the object is an inanimate object. 19.The apparatus of claim 16 wherein the one or more color samples are oneor more color samples selected from the group consisting of makeup,stains, powder coatings, and glazes, and wherein the substantiallytransparent pliable substrate is hypoallergenic.
 20. The apparatus ofclaim 16 wherein the substantially transparent pliable substratesubstantially conforms to a body shape of a user when the substantiallytransparent pliable substrate is pressed against the body shape of theuser.